What to Look for in a Family-Friendly Neighborhood Near Fort Meade

Relocating to Maryland and want the best neighborhood for your family near Fort Meade? Whether you're military PCSing to the area or just looking for a safe, supportive community to put down roots, knowing what to look for can make all the difference. 

Here’s a breakdown of what truly makes a neighborhood family-friendly—and how to find it near one of Maryland’s busiest military installations. 

1. School District Quality 

One of the first things most parents check is the quality of local schools. In Maryland, public school performance can vary widely from one ZIP code to the next. 

Things to Consider: 

• School ratings (GreatSchools.org is a solid start) 

• Student-teacher ratios 

• Extracurricular programs and special education services 

• Reviews from other military families 

📍 Top-Rated Areas Near Fort Meade: Odenton, Crofton, and parts of Hanover have access to some of Anne Arundel County’s strongest schools. 

2. Safety & Community Atmosphere 

Feeling safe is non-negotiable, especially with young kids. But beyond low crime rates, a truly family-friendly neighborhood will have: 

• Sidewalks and walking paths 

• Well-lit streets 

• Active community watch programs 

• Family events and block parties 

Neighborhoods like Piney Orchard in Odenton and Waugh Chapel in Gambrills are known for their family-friendly design and sense of community. 

3. Commute to Fort Meade 

For military families, proximity to base matters. Traffic on MD-32 and MD-295 can be unpredictable (or predictably terrible), so it helps to: 

• Look for homes within a 15–20-minute drive 

• Prioritize access to commuter routes or MARC stations 

• Consider if you'll need to commute at odd hours due to shift work 

Odenton, Severn, and Laurel offer direct access routes to the base and often strike a balance between convenience and affordability. 

4. Kid-Friendly Amenities 

Think parks, playgrounds, community pools, and family-friendly dining. You’ll want to explore: 

• Neighborhood recreation centers 

• Libraries and kids’ programs 

• Local sports leagues and youth activities (I must plug the Tri City Eagles here—my family’s home away from home) 

• Walkability to parks or ice cream shops 

If you’re considering a specific neighborhood, visit on a weekend. Are there kids outside? Are strollers and bikes in driveways? These are the real signs of a family-friendly area. 

5. Future Resale Value 

Even if you plan to stay long-term, resale matters—especially if you’re using a VA loan. Focus on neighborhoods with: 

• Steady home appreciation 

• Good school zones 

• Low rental turnover 

Family-friendly areas tend to hold their value better over time, making them a safer investment. 

Let Us Help You Find the Right Fit 

At Salvato & Co. Real Estate, we specialize in helping military and local families find homes near Fort Meade that check all the boxes—schools, safety, community, and convenience. 

Schedule a Free Consultation or explore our PCS relocation services for more info on buying in family-friendly Maryland neighborhoods.